The Dallas Cowboys issued a solemn tribute after the tragic death of defensive end Marshawn Kneeland, expressing deep sorrow and support for his loved ones. The team called the news “extreme sadness” and announced resources for players and staff as the organization and community begin to grieve.
Kneeland, 24, was found deceased early Thursday in an incident authorities are investigating as a self‑inflicted gunshot wound following a late‑night police pursuit and a welfare check. The Texas Department of Public Safety said officers had attempted to stop a vehicle for a traffic violation before the car was abandoned and a search located Kneeland at the scene.
Dallas Cowboys, Marshawn Kneeland, NFL
Aug 16, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland (94) after the game against the Baltimore Ravens at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
The Cowboys’ statement emphasized Kneeland’s standing as a beloved teammate and pledged to provide counseling and other support to help teammates process the loss. Leadership and players reacted publicly, sharing shock and condolences on social media while team facilities displayed tributes and the NFL offered counseling resources leaguewide.
Reaction across the NFL underscored the abruptness of the tragedy, coming days after Kneeland scored his first career touchdown on a blocked‑punt return. Teammates, former players and league figures remembered his work ethic and character, even as investigators and medical examiners continued to piece together the events of the night.
Media coverage has traced the sequence leading to Kneeland’s death and reported that those close to him had raised welfare concerns before the fatal incident. News outlets also stressed the importance of mental‑health awareness and the availability of crisis resources for anyone struggling with suicidal thoughts.
Dallas Cowboys Drop Their Tribute for Marshawn Kneeland
Dallas Cowboys, Marshawn Kneeland, NFL
Aug 24, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland (94) walks off the field after the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Just recently, the team showed off their tribute for one of their late players. This can be seen in a post shared by Jon Machota on X.
The Cowboys headquarters, The Star, in Frisco pic.twitter.com/9uvbBTkFXy
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) November 6, 2025
As the Cowboys observe a bye week, the team’s immediate priorities are supporting Kneeland’s family and offering care to players and staff. Officials asked for privacy for the family while public memorials and tributes take shape in the coming days.
Dallas Cowboys, Marshawn Kneeland, NFL
Former Western Michigan University football player Marshawn Kneeland, bottom, works out at the Exos training facility at the Andrews Institute in Gulf Breeze on Friday, Feb. 17, 2024. Kneeland and other players are preparing for the upcoming NFL Scouting Combine.
The loss has reverberated beyond Dallas, prompting reminders about the unseen struggles people may face even amid apparent success. The organization and the league now face the task of honoring Kneeland’s memory while reinforcing support systems for players’ well‑being.
Dallas Cowboys, Marshawn Kneeland, NFL
Sep 15, 2024; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland (94) walks off the field after the game against the New Orleans Saints at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-Imagn Images
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